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The Sustainable Stop

Munro Profile 48: Mullach Fraoch-choire

Region: Loch Duich to Loch Ness
Height: 1,102m (3,615 ft)

Mullach Fraoch-choire is a dramatic peak on the north Glen Shiel ridge, often climbed with A’ Chràlaig for a thrilling horseshoe traverse. Its name, “summit of the heather corrie,” belies the rugged terrain and airy ridgeline that make it one of the most visually striking Munros in the area. For campervan travellers, access is direct via the A87, with roadside options and nearby facilities.

Trailhead and Parking

Primary Access Point: Cluanie Inn Layby (A87)
Location: Glen Shiel, opposite the Cluanie Inn
Grid Reference: NH094117 (trailhead)
Summit Grid Reference: NH094152

Capacity: Moderate roadside layby; suitable for campervans during the day
Facilities: Café and toilets at Cluanie Inn (seasonal)
Charges: Free
Overnight: Not permitted

Alternative Options

  • Cluanie Inn: May allow overnight stays by arrangement
  • Wild parking: Possible in designated laybys along the A87 (check signage and seasonal restrictions)
  • Fort Augustus: Campsite with full facilities, 30–40 minutes away

Route Overview

Standard Ascent: Horseshoe Traverse via A’ Chràlaig
Distance: Approximately 14 km round trip
Elevation Gain: Around 1,200 metres
Terrain: Steep grassy slopes, rocky ridges, exposed scrambles
Time Estimate: 6 to 8 hours

Navigation Notes

  • Ridge is narrow and exposed; a map, compass, or GPS is essential
  • Often paired with A’ Chràlaig for a two-Munro circuit
  • Weather can shift quickly; visibility and wind conditions are key

Campervan Suitability

Day Parking

  • Cluanie Inn layby allows daytime campervan access
  • Fort Augustus offers overflow options and amenities

Overnight Options

  • Fort Augustus Campsite: Toilets, showers, electric hook-ups
  • Wild parking may be possible in designated laybys (check signage)
  • No overnighting permitted at Cluanie layby unless arranged with the Inn

Fuel and Supplies

  • Fort Augustus: Fuel station, shop, café
  • Nearest large supermarket: Inverness

Legacy Log

  • Name origin: “Mullach Fraoch-choire” translates to “summit of the heather corrie”
  • Summit features: Cairn with views across Glen Affric, Loch Cluanie, and the South Shiel Ridge
  • Known for: Airy ridgeline, pairing potential, and dramatic prominence
  • Popular with: Scramblers, ridge walkers, and those seeking a high-impact traverse

Closing Notes

This is Munro Profile 48 in your campervan-access series. If you’ve climbed Mullach Fraoch-choire, linked it with A’ Chràlaig, or found a reliable overnight spot nearby, feel free to share your comments. Your insights help shape the archive and support fellow travellers.

Sources Used
These sites provide far more detailed and comprehensive overviews of the walks and Munros than I could hope to cover here:

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